Controversy Surrounds Glens Falls Man Accused of Harassment

GLENS FALLS — A 34-year-old man with autism has found himself at the center of a troubling controversy, facing accusations from community members of harassing children. The situation has escalated, leading him to experience public ridicule, online mockery, and even physical assaults.

The man, Gage Wright, asserts that he was merely enjoying some reading and exercising in Crandall Park, but his presence has stirred discontent among some locals.

For several months, Wright, often dressed in all black, has become a recognizable figure in the park, earning him the moniker “the man in black.” Recently, allegations emerged claiming he was filming children, a charge he firmly denies, with family and friends stepping up to defend him.

This controversy has exploded on social media, resulting in videos of Wright circulating widely. His longtime friend, Ryan Rabine, reports that he has faced physical assaults on five separate occasions due to the backlash.

The Glens Falls Police Department issued a statement on July 23, denouncing what they termed “vigilante actions” by residents who confronted and assaulted Wright based on their suspicions. They encouraged community members to report any concerns to the police rather than take such matters into their own hands.

According to Glens Falls Mayor Diana Palmer, all reports involving Wright have been thoroughly investigated, with no criminal activity discovered. “We urge the public to avoid relying on rumors or social media,” she stated, advocating for a more cautious approach.

The unfolding saga has divided the community, leading to the formation of a Facebook group titled “Stand with Gage,” which has amassed nearly 900 members. The group aims to discuss the experience of neurodivergent individuals in public spaces.

Chris Evans, a resident of Saratoga County, voiced his concerns by stating that vulnerable individuals should not feel confined to their homes due to fears of public harassment or violence. The Rising tensions reflect broader societal issues regarding the treatment of those who are different.

Attempts to contact Wright directly for his perspective were unsuccessful, with reports indicating he may be avoiding public attention. Supporters attribute the accusations to misunderstandings regarding how he holds his phone, which can sometimes make it appear as if he is filming rather than checking his messages.

Rabine elaborated on Wright’s demeanor, noting that he holds his phone upright, giving the illusion that he might be capturing photos. Despite Wright’s consistent denials of any wrongdoing, friends and supporters have asked those making accusations for evidence to back their claims, but no one has provided any.

As the controversy continued to escalate, Wright has reportedly responded aggressively to confrontations, leading to further tensions. In one widely-shared video, he could be seen lashing out at a woman who accused him of filming children, using hostile language in the exchange.

The woman behind that video, Theresa Fayette, has not commented on the situation. Following its release, Rabine felt compelled to come to Wright’s defense, fearing for his friend’s safety amidst escalating hostility.

Members of the “Stand with Gage” group have adopted the slogan “different, not dangerous,” pledging to look out for Wright as he navigates public spaces. Rabine acknowledged that many people are simply uncomfortable with what they don’t understand, sharing how he too might have reacted differently if he didn’t know Wright.

Research has shown that individuals with autism are more likely to experience violence compared to the broader population. A 2022 study noted that around 60% of individuals with autism report experiencing some form of physical or sexual violence, compared to 40% of non-autistic adults.

While facing backlash due to his own past, Rabine believes it’s important to advocate for Wright. His previous legal troubles, which include a 2017 incident and a separate conviction related to an unlicensed firearm, have drawn scrutiny, but he maintains he has changed since then and is now a responsible citizen.

Despite the ongoing conflict, Rabine is committed to supporting neurodivergent individuals through “Stand with Gage.” The group has already organized community cookouts and discussions, and they’re collaborating with local bodybuilders to host exercise classes for neurodivergent individuals every Monday.

He expressed gratitude for the support from parents who share their concerns for their own autistic children. “People need to hear both sides before jumping to conclusions,” he concluded, emphasizing that no one has the right to act as judge or jury in this complex situation.